Airport number crunchers have calculated that it takes around a minute per passenger to take off all winter layers - coats, hats, scarves and gloves - so it’s best done in your own time rather than at the gate.

Describing the airport’s festive flyaway operation, Andrew Proudlove, head of security at Manchester Airport, said: “Winter weather fashion has a surprisingly big impact on airport security, slowing down the screening process and causing avoidable extra waiting times, which is why we are issuing this advice.

“Our advice is to take off your coats, extra layers, big boots, scarves and hats when you are in the security queue itself so you can put it straight in the tray for screening.

“When it comes to what you can and can’t pack in your hand luggage, the rules are exactly the same at Christmas as they are for the rest of the year.

“However, at this time of year passengers often travel with gifts of more unusual items, which unwittingly do not comply with the rules. If in doubt, check with your airline first and put it in your suitcase for the hold, rather than your hand luggage.

“We dislike queues just as much as anyone else – and we certainly don’t want to ruin anyone’s Christmas by confiscating prohibited gifts.”

From Christmas Eve to January 1, more than 400,000 passengers will travel through the hub - around 45,000 a day - with the busiest days expected to be December 18, 20 and 21.

8. Don’t panic if you’re a parent with presents for children and you don’t want to take them out in front of them. The airport security staff have been briefed to help you load security trays without the kids seeing them if asked. Phew.

9. Customer service staff are on hand to help you.

10. When you’re going to the airport, give yourself plenty of time for weather – defrosting the car and winter weather can add to journey times, so set off in plenty of time.

11. Unzip, unfasten and unbutton your big winter coats whilst you’re queuing up and then take them off to put into the tray, just before you get to the front of

the queue

12. The same applies to hats, scarves and gloves. You might also need to take off your big boots, but you can leave your socks on!

13. Big jewellery, oversized watches, pendants and chains are all also likely to set off the metal detector, so it’s best to take off the bling to avoid the ping!

14. Santa suits are fine, so if you want to come to the airport dressed as Father Christmas, that’s OK. Just let the security officer know if your beard is actually a real one that’s attached to your face, otherwise it might be a bit awkward if you’re asked to remove it.